The Convenience of Push Button Start and Electronic Transmission Controls May Lead to Safety Issues and Concerns Affecting BMW after Investigation of 16 Crashes and 5 Injuries
According to news sources, U.S. safety regulators have indicated that 16 crashes and 5 injuries were related to transmission control problems with BMW series 7 cars. The vehicles have not yet been recalled. However, 122,000 BMW’s from 2002 through 2008 model years are being investigated. According to the investigation, many drivers or owners of these vehicles think they are in park when they are actually in neutral and can roll away unexpectedly, crash, and injure others.
As experienced Pennsylvania auto product liability lawyers, we have written before about safety concerns on electronic transmissions and push button start.
If you have had any issues with an electronic transmission or electronic start button, you should immediately take your car back to the dealer, notify them of the problem, and make a written record. If you feel that the vehicle is not safe to drive, do not be afraid to contact the manufacturer’s national office directly.
We are aware of several cases where electronic controls and ignitions gave false readings and as the owner of a vehicle that contains the same, I have had my own series of concerns and safety issues.
The Pennsylvania motor vehicle accident and product liability lawyers of Reiff and Bily always offer a free, no obligation consultation to those involved in a catastrophic car accident. We believe that safety should never trump the profitability of manufacturers. Contact us toll free at 1-800-421-9595 or online at www.reiffandbily.com.